Beef Stuffed Shells Ricotta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe combines the satisfying flavors of seasoned beef and ricotta cheese in tender pasta shells, baked to perfection with rich marinara and a cheesy topping. It’s an easy, family-friendly meal that feels indulgent but comes together with minimal fuss.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 12 jumbo pasta shells
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the jumbo pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to cool.
3. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, half of the shredded mozzarella, and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
5. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce in the bottom of a baking dish.
6. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the beef and ricotta mixture and arrange them in the baking dish.
7. Pour the remaining marinara sauce evenly over the stuffed shells.
8. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses on top.
9. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

Serves: 6
Preparation Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or Italian sausage for different flavors.
• Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms into the ricotta filling for extra veggies.
• Use a blend of Italian cheeses like provolone or fontina for richer flavor.
• Incorporate fresh basil or parsley for added freshness.
• Top with crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen before baking; thaw completely before cooking.

FAQs

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate before baking.

How do I prevent the shells from breaking?

Cook pasta just until al dente and handle gently when stuffing.

Can I use no-boil pasta shells?

Yes, but adjust cooking time and increase sauce to ensure they soften.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, freeze before baking and thaw before cooking.

Can I omit the egg in the filling?

The egg helps bind the filling, but you can omit it if needed.

What can I use instead of ricotta cheese?

Cottage cheese or cream cheese are suitable alternatives.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, finely chopped or sautéed veggies mix well into the filling.

How do I know when it’s done baking?

Cheese should be melted and bubbly, and sauce hot and simmering.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free jumbo pasta shells and marinara sauce to make it gluten-free.

How do I store leftovers properly?

Cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate promptly.

Conclusion

Beef Stuffed Shells Ricotta is a delicious, comforting meal that blends savory beef, creamy cheese, and tender pasta into a satisfying dish everyone will love. With easy prep and a rich, cheesy finish, it’s a perfect choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

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